Battleship Missouri Memorial Celebrates the 70th Anniversary of Veterans Day Aboard the Mighty Mo
Pearl Harbor, HI - Today, the Battleship Missouri Memorial hosted a heartfelt ceremony commemorating the 70th Anniversary of Veterans Day, paying tribute to the men and women who have valiantly served in the U.S. Armed Forces through times of both peace and conflict. Held aboard the iconic Mighty Mo, this event brought together veterans, active service members, dignitaries, and the community to honor the profound contributions of America’s heroes.
The Battleship Missouri Memorial, resting in Pearl Harbor—a site forever etched in history as a turning point of World War II—served as a meaningful backdrop for this commemorative gathering. As a symbol of America’s enduring spirit and dedication to freedom, the venue emphasized the profound importance of Veterans Day, and the legacy carried forward by the sacrifices of countless service members.
“The Battleship Missouri Memorial stands as a tribute to the sacrifice our service members have and continue to make,” said Michael Carr, President and Chief Executive Officer of the USS Missouri Memorial Association. “Today, on the 70th Anniversary of Veterans Day, we renew our commitment to honor all who have served, preserving their legacy aboard this symbol of peace and freedom.”
The ceremony featured U.S. Pacific Command’s Joint Service Color Guard, musical performances by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, rifle salute by the U.S. Marine Corps Forces, and a moving rendition of Amazing Grace by the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawai‘i honoring all service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of America’s freedoms.
Major General Stephen F. Logan, Adjutant General for the State of Hawai‘i, Department of Defense, served as the keynote speaker. Captain Samuel White, commanding officer of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, joined as the distinguished guest speaker, each offering reflections on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of veterans across generations. Their speeches underscored the unbreakable bond between the military and the community, inspiring all in attendance to honor and uphold the values that define the nation.
“Hawai‘i has long been a land of leaders and protectors. For centuries, Hawaiians have understood the values of bravery, duty and sacrifice. The concept of kuleana or responsibility has been integral to the Hawaiian culture – guiding people to take care of their land, their community and their fellow men and women. Kuleana is what our current military strives for as stewards of both the land and the sea,” said Major General Logan. “As we celebrate Veterans Day, we recognize not only your courage but also the legacy of every service member who stood over our freedom – from the battles fought on foreign soil to the steadfast watch over our own.”
“When you join the service, something magical happens – and what that thing is, it changes you forever,” said Captain White. “I’m so overwhelmed with emotion and connectivity to the history of Veterans from World War II to the very present – and more than anything else, I am proud to be a Veteran.”
In addition to the in-person attendees, the Battleship Missouri Memorial welcomed viewers worldwide to join the ceremony virtually via livestreams on its Facebook page and YouTube channel. This event was free and open to the public, allowing everyone to participate in this historic day of remembrance and gratitude. The Battleship Missouri Memorial livestreamed this event on its YouTube page.
Please credit to the Battleship Missouri Memorial.Link to download images: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/vd6lw6ena05tht9gv67zohwvx42hrby6
Caption: Battleship Missouri Memorial Sunset Veterans Day Ceremony.
Caption: Many in attendance at the Battleship Missouri Memorial Sunset Veterans Day Ceremony.
Caption: Parade the Colors provided by Joint Service Color Guard, U.S. Pacific Command.
Caption: U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, Ceremonial Band played God Bless America, Taps and Armed Forces Medley during today’s ceremony.
Caption: Rifle Salute by U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific.
Caption: Major General Stephen F. Logan, Adjutant General, State of Hawai‘i, Department of Defense served as today’s keynote speaker.
Caption: Captain Samuel White, Commanding Officer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam served as today’s distinguished guest speaker. Battleship Missouri MemorialSince opening in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has attracted more than 10-million visitors from around the world with a fascinating tour experience showcasing the USS Missouri’s unique place in history. Located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the “day of infamy” and sinking of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 and ends with Japan’s formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.
The USS Missouri had an astounding career over five decades and three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm – after which it was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Association operates the Battleship Missouri Memorial as a historic attraction and oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants, and donations.
The Battleship Missouri Memorial is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Military, kama‘āina (local resident) and school group pricing is available. For information or reservations, call (808) 455-1600 or visit USSMissouri.org.